Spring is here and it is time to start getting the bikes out of the garages and taking to the roads across Pennsylvania. There really is nothing like the feel of the engine and the rush of the air. But before you head out, you know that you need to get your ride ready to go for the summer.
If you are like most riders, you put your bike away months ago. Before you get ready to go on that first cross-state ride, you need to make sure everything is perfect in order to be safe. So here are a few ideas to help you get back on the road.
Tire pressure fluctuates during winter disuse
The handiest piece of equipment for any biker is a tire gauge. It may seem like second nature to you to have one, but you will be amazed at how difficult life can be when you lose that little silver tool. Checking that your tires are properly inflated ensure balance and traction, two things that are essential to any biker that doesn’t want to get into a motorcycle accident.
Bike helmets must be inspected
Every helmet manufacturer has their own guidelines for when to replace their helmets. However, to be extra careful, though it may not seem exciting, you want to make sure your safety equipment is in the best shape. You want to inspect your helmet each year. Cracks in the plastic or tears in the straps are clear signs to buy a new one.
Get a tune up as soon as you can
It might hurt your pride, but you want to take your bike into a shop to get a tune-up. They’ll test your breaks, top off your oils and overall make sure you have a safe, fast ride for the summer. Bikes are great but you can’t possibly expect something to work well after a long winter’s worth of neglect.
Enjoy the air
Once your motorcycle is back in tip-top shape, pull on your helmet and hit the road.
